“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence therefore, is not an act, but a habit.”– Aristotle.
As the New Year unfolds, it brings with it a fresh start and the opportunity to embrace new habits. At Virtus, The British Sixth Form College, we believe in the power of positive change and personal growth. This year, we’re focused on cultivating habits that not only enhance our academic progress but also enrich our personal lives and well-being.
Emphasizing Holistic Development
Balanced Learning:
At Virtus, we understand that academic excellence is just one part of the equation. We encourage our students to balance their studies with extra activities, fostering a well-rounded education.
Whether it’s sports, arts, or community service, engaging in diverse interests helps develop a more holistic perspective.We incorporate these activities within the school day in order to ensure students embrace them as equally important to lessons.
Our mentors work closely with our students to develop effective and personalized study plans to ensure students learn how to plan, monitor progress and self regulate their time and effort. These life skills are imperative for future success and overall well being.
Mental Well-being:
Mental health is paramount. We’re introducing mindfulness and stress management workshops to help students navigate the pressures of academic life. By prioritizing mental health, we aim to create a supportive and nurturing environment for all, and reducing the stigma often surrounding it.
Embracing Technology Responsibly:
In our increasingly digital world, responsible use of technology is crucial. We encourage students to leverage technology for learning while also being mindful of its impact on their health and social interactions. We therefore also promote the use of textbooks, workbooks, and paper: merging the digital and non digital world for an effective learning environment.
Fostering a Sustainable Lifestyle
Environmental Awareness:
As a forward-thinking institution, Virtus is committed to sustainability. We’re integrating environmental education into our curriculum and encouraging students to participate in eco-friendly initiatives. Last term we had an assembly held by visiting speakers from Ecoalf which raised awareness of the challenges we face as a global community due to consumption, and also the local challenges we face here in Madrid with the river Rio.
Our focus this term will be to participate in environmental charity initiatives such as river cleaning in order to foster a sense of responsibility amongst our students, and contribute positively by doing our bit for our wonderful planet.
Healthy Eating Habits:
Recognising the link between nutrition and cognitive function, our menu offers healthier meal options. We aim to educate our students on the benefits of a balanced diet.
Community and Global Engagement
Volunteering and Social Responsibility:
We’re strengthening our community outreach programmes, encouraging students to engage in volunteer work and social projects. This not only benefits the community but also instills a sense of responsibility and empathy in our students.
Leadership and Teamwork Development:
Virtus is also committed to developing future leaders. We’re introducing new initiatives and roles that focus on enhancing leadership and teamwork skills. Through activities such as debate clubs, group projects, and leadership workshops, students will learn the importance of collaboration, effective communication, and ethical leadership in both community and global contexts.
New Year at Virtus, The British Sixth Form College
As we step into the New Year, Virtus, The British Sixth Form College, is dedicated to nurturing habits that will shape not only successful students but also responsible, well-rounded individuals. We invite our students and staff to join us in this journey of continuous growth and improvement.
